If we follow the argument that comics are for children, then whatdistinguishes them from picture books? In the last decade, a newer focus onthe semiotics of picture books has begun to inform scholarship on comics.

Yet, for comics specifically written for children, do these reflect similarpatterns as found in picture books? If not, where do children's comicsdiverge to be grouped along with comics intended for adults?

Regarding picture books, one of its distinguishing characteristics is voice.Also, picture books depend primarily on illustrative art where comics employdiverse arts, especially evident in works like Lynda Barry's100 Demons!.

So, then, do children's picture books appear "childish" because of thetextures of artistic contribution against the oversized properties of text?If so, do the bolder colors in children's comics, like Art Spiegelman'sLittle Lit series, point to reflexes of adult imaginations possible inchildren?

You are welcome to contribute other ideas you think are pertinent to thisdiscussion. The idea, though, is to connect, challenge and comment onopposing mediums that nonetheless depend on image and text to tell thestories children love.

Ideally, I would like to have two papers that focus on picture books, andtwo papers on children's comics. I will accept abstracts through Sept. 15,2006. Please include your name, affiliation, e-mail, complete mailingaddress, telephone number, and any A/V needs. Thanks!

Vanessa Raney, Graduate Caucus DirectorNeMLAraneyvan_at_msu.edu

From Elizabeth Abele, NeMLA Executive Director:"In addition to the wide range of panels, NeMLA's 38th Convention will offerprograms highlighting prominent scholars and authors. Thanks to our hostinstitution, Johns Hopkins University, our keynote speaker will be AmandaAnderson. Professor Anderson specializes in Victorian literature andcontemporary literary, cultural, and political theory. She is the author ofThe Way We Argue Now: A Study in the Cultures of Theory (Princeton, 2006).We will kick-off the Convention on Thursday March 1 with a free welcomingreception and reading, featuring the works of novelist Madison Smartt Belland poet Elizabeth Spire. With additional speakers and events being plannedby the Language Directors and MLS, NEMLA's 38th Convention promises to offera stimulating conference to regular NEMLA members and new friends."

Of interest to grad students:

NeMLA's 2006-07 Graduate Caucus Board is confirmed with these officers:

NeMLA offers travel awards for the 2007 NeMLA Convention (limited numberavailable), the Graduate Caucus Prize for the best graduate student paperpresented (prize is publication in MLS), the Graduate Caucus Roundtable (ontopics such as negotiating the job market), and the Summer Fellowship(deadline: Jan. 31, 2007). Details will be posted to the NeMLA Website byFall 2006. In the meantime, feel free to e-mail anyone on the GraduateCaucus Board with questions. Note: New members will be eligible to join atthe grad rate once registration is opened for the 2007 NeMLA Convention;check the Website in Oct. for more info.